For the first time in the whole series there is a map shown of the political situation in Gilead. This map shows the main area of Gilead, or the area occupied and governed by the Gilead regime colored blue. Other areas are colored yellow, perhaps these are the Colonies of Gilead. There are other areas colored a light red shade; areas possibly disputed between Gilead and the US Government. It is also noticed that many large areas of the southern and western coastline, and the frontier with Canada are colored dark red. These might be areas that are liberated by the US Government. Finally this map shows where is the location of the nuclear wastelands.
The prayer Serena murmurs to the baby - "May the Lord bless you, etc.", interrupted near the end by "my sweet, sweet girl" - is the Benediction Prayer from Numbers 6:24-26, which is employed in many Christian and Jewish services, and universally in Roman Catholic services.